A Case of the Carotid-Cavernous Fistula Due to the Internal Carotid Artery Injury During Endoscopic Sinus Surgery

ABSTRACT

Rupture of the internal carotid artery (ICA) during endoscopic sinus surgery is a rare complication. However, it can potentially result in death within minutes. In the event of a traumatic injury to the ICA during sphenoid sinus exploration, it is very difficult to control the bleeding. We present a case of carotid-cavernous fistula after an accidentally-developed ICA bleed during endoscopic sphenoidotomy. The patient was successfully treated with endovascular embolization techniques that included detachable microcoils.